12 July,2011 06:59 AM IST | | Urvashi Seth
Western India Tourism Organisation also plans to start a helpline and hold exhibitions to woo visitors
From starting a helpline number to organising exhibitions, the newly-formed Western India Tourism Organisation (WITO), which comprises various bodies of hotel and travel industry, is doing every possible thing to boost the morale of the tourism industry in the state.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan had announced 2011-12 a tourism year, but the decision was scrapped by his successor Prithviraj Chavan
In a recent meeting held between the experts of the hospitality industry and Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), the hoteliers' association has once again demanded that 2011-2012 be declared a tourism year.
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Earlier, the Ashok Chavan-led government had announced it a tourism year, but the decision was scrapped after his successor Prithviraj Chavan assumed power.
"We have demanded that this year be declared a tourism year so that we can promote our state well. We are also planning to start a helpline number for tourists, who can call to clear doubts.
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This will be an initiative to woo more tourists to the state," said Kamlesh Barot, president, Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India).
For the first time, the HRA (WI) will hold an exhibition in September to promote the city as a tourist destination.
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"We have urged the MTDC to help us promote tourism by preparing a year-long calendar," he added. According to the sources, suggestions were made to make the city pedestrian friendly.
